Valmiki Ramayana 2.30.35 — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 30, Shloka 35
सीताया वनानुगमननिश्चयः
Sita’s Resolve to Accompany Rama to the Forest
न सत्यं दानमानौ वा न यज्ञाश्चाप्तदक्षिणाः।तथा बलकरा स्सीते यथा सेवा पितुर्हिता।।2.30.35।।
na satyaṃ dāna-mānau vā na yajñāś cāpta-dakṣiṇāḥ |
tathā balakarāḥ sīte yathā sevā pitur hitā ||2.30.35||
हे सीते! न सत्य बोलना, न दान और सम्मान, न उचित दक्षिणा सहित यज्ञ—इनमें से कोई भी उतना बल देने वाला नहीं है जितनी पिता के हित के लिए की गई सेवा।
Truth or munificence or homage or distribution of gifts to the revered ones or sacrifices, O Sita, are not considered as efficacious as service to father.
FAQs
Concrete duty—especially service to one’s father—can outweigh even celebrated virtues and rituals when dharma demands obedience and care within the family order.
Rama emphasizes why he must uphold his father’s command, framing filial service as a powerful dharmic act during the exile decision.
Rama’s commitment to duty over display—prioritizing lived righteousness above ritual prestige.
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